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This versatile cilantro lime crema has become my secret weapon for transforming ordinary tacos and burritos into restaurant-quality meals. The perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and herbaceous flavors elevates any Mexican-inspired dish with just a spoonful.
I first created this sauce when hosting an impromptu taco night with friends who unexpectedly dropped by. It was such a hit that everyone demanded the recipe before leaving, and now it's requested at every gathering I host.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt or sour cream provides the creamy base and tanginess while keeping calories lower than traditional crema
- Mayonnaise adds richness and helps the sauce cling perfectly to food
- Fresh lime juice brightens the entire sauce with essential citrus notes
- Garlic clove delivers aromatic depth without overpowering when used fresh
- Sea salt enhances all flavors and balances the tanginess
- Onion powder offers savory notes without the texture of raw onions
- Fresh cilantro provides the signature flavor and beautiful green flecks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Base Mixture
- Add the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, salt, and onion powder to your food processor. Process until completely smooth and well incorporated, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides halfway through to ensure everything blends evenly.
- Adding Cilantro
- Add the fresh cilantro to the processor and pulse briefly just until the herbs are chopped and distributed throughout the sauce. Aim for visible green flecks rather than a completely smooth texture. This typically takes 5-7 pulses. The visible cilantro provides both visual appeal and texture to the finished sauce.
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My favorite way to enjoy this crema is drizzled over blackened fish tacos with a bit of cabbage slaw. The cool creaminess against the spicy fish creates a perfect balance that reminds me of beachside meals during family vacations in Baja California.
Consistency Control
The thickness of your crema can be easily adjusted to suit different purposes. For a thicker dip consistency, use Greek yogurt with a higher fat content or stick with sour cream as your base. If you need a more drizzle-friendly sauce for topping tacos or enchiladas, simply add additional fresh lime juice or even a splash of water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor Variations
This recipe serves as an excellent base for creative variations. For a spicy version, add a seeded jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the initial blending step. For a smokier profile, incorporate a quarter teaspoon of ground cumin or smoked paprika. You can also experiment with different herbs by substituting part of the cilantro with fresh mint or parsley for a unique twist that complements specific dishes.
Serving Suggestions
While traditional tacos and burritos are obvious pairings, this versatile crema elevates numerous dishes. Try it as a topping for grilled vegetables, a spread for turkey sandwiches, or a dressing for roasted sweet potato and black bean bowls. It also makes an outstanding dip for fresh vegetables, tortilla chips, or even as a replacement for sour cream on baked potatoes. The bright flavor profile cuts through rich foods beautifully.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this cilantro lime crema without a food processor?
Yes! While a food processor creates the smoothest texture, you can finely chop the cilantro and garlic by hand, then whisk all ingredients together in a bowl. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in this sauce?
Sour cream works perfectly as a 1:1 substitute. For dairy-free versions, try coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended with a splash of lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of yogurt.
- → How long does homemade cilantro lime crema last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this crema stays fresh for up to 5 days. The flavor actually improves after the first day as ingredients meld together.
- → What dishes pair well with cilantro lime crema?
This versatile sauce complements tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, grilled fish, chicken, roasted vegetables, and grain bowls. It also makes an excellent dip for tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
- → Can I make this sauce spicy?
Absolutely! Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce, a diced jalapeño, or 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to give it a kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- → Is there a substitute for cilantro for those who don't enjoy it?
For cilantro-averse folks, substitute with fresh parsley for a different but equally delicious herb sauce. Basil or a mix of herbs like parsley and mint also create wonderful variations.